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Cybercrime Surges During Coronavirus Pandemic

A recent surge in cybercrime has been reported across Europe, with the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) and Europol revealing a sharp increase in online attacks and illegal activities.

Cybercrime Cases on the Rise

According to a new report from the BKA, cybercrime cases increased by 30% in 2019 compared to the previous year. The report highlights the growing threat of online child pornography, with the majority of cases involving the distribution of explicit images and videos via darknet platforms.

The pandemic has also led to an increase in COVID-19 related scams, with darknet drug dealers now selling fake “Pfizer COVID vaccines” for as little as $250. Check Point, a cybersecurity firm, reported that these fake vaccines were being touted on the darknet, raising concerns about the spread of misinformation and the potential harm to public health.

Illegal Online Pharmacies and Counterfeit Medication

The BKA has also seen an increase in cases involving illegal online pharmacies and the sale of counterfeit COVID-19 medication. In one notable case, police in North-Rhine Westphalia discovered a group of child molesters who had been using the digital environment to commit their crimes.

Europol’s Efforts to Combat Cybercrime

Europol, the European Union’s law enforcement agency, has also reported an increase in cybercrime during the pandemic. The agency recently dismantled DarkMarket, the world’s largest illegal dark web marketplace, and disrupted the notorious Emotet malware.

BKA’s Response

The BKA has responded by strengthening its Cybercrime Department and increasing efforts to combat online child pornography and other forms of cybercrime. Europol has also pledged to continue working with law enforcement agencies across Europe to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks involved in online illegal activities.

Sources

  • BKA (2020a), p. 31
  • Europol (2020), p. 27 + 31
  • BSI (2020), p. 34
  • Check Point (2021), Covid-19 ‘Vaccines’ Touted for Just $250 on Darknet